Proverbs 19:12
The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.
Original Language Analysis
כַּ֭כְּפִיר
of a lion
H3715
כַּ֭כְּפִיר
of a lion
Strong's:
H3715
Word #:
2 of 8
a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
6 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Hosea 14:5I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.Proverbs 20:2The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.Psalms 133:3As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.Proverbs 28:15As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.
Historical Context
Reflects ancient Near Eastern monarchy's absolute power over subjects. Kings could execute or enrich with a word, making understanding their disposition essential to survival and prosperity.
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding God's kingly power affect your pursuit of His favor?
- What in your life provokes the divine King's wrath versus gains His favor?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion, but his favor is as dew upon the grass. Royal anger terrifies like a lion's roar; royal favor refreshes like morning dew. The contrasting metaphors emphasize monarchy's power to harm or bless. This wisdom guided ancient courtiers' conduct - avoiding wrath, seeking favor. Applied to divine King, the principle teaches fearing God's judgment while seeking His grace. Christ's kingship makes His favor life-giving and His wrath fearsome.